Utricularia (bladderwort) is a carnivorous plant with a singular way of feeding: with no roots, it captures its prey using tiny suction traps. Here's the essential guide to growing it well.

Temperature and environment

1 - What temperature suits Utricularia?

Up to 35°C in summer and 10 to 15°C in winter. It's a plant that tolerates typical seasonal variation well, whether grown indoors in a bright spot or outdoors in a sheltered location.

Watering it well

2 - What water should be used for Utricularia?

Only rainwater, demineralised or reverse osmosis water. Water that's too hard causes the plant to decline within a few weeks. Don't use bottled water, as it generally contains too many salts, which harm the plant.

3 - How should it be watered in summer?

Place the plant in a large saucer filled with water, to maintain constant moisture during its active growing period.

4 - How should it be watered in winter?

Simply keep the substrate moist, without excess stagnant water.

Light and substrate

5 - What light does Utricularia need?

Strong light year-round. Sun exposure encourages abundant flowering, one of this plant's most decorative features.

6 - What substrate should be used?

The mix for carnivorous plants suits most cases: blonde peat, perlite and vermiculite (4:1:1), or blonde peat and non-calcareous aquarium sand (2:1). Dehydrated sphagnum also works perfectly well.

General care

7 - Should Utricularia be fertilised?

No, this should be avoided entirely. The plant meets its own organic nutrient needs through its traps, like all carnivorous plants.

8 - Does Utricularia need to be fed by hand?

No, its suction traps allow it to capture the micro-organisms it needs on its own, provided it's grown in suitable conditions (water, light, substrate).

Successfully growing Utricularia

Suitable water, strong light and a nutrient-poor substrate are enough to make this unusual carnivorous plant thrive, as it feeds itself through its traps. Follow these few simple rules to enjoy its spectacular flowering.

Growing guide and tips | Growing tips for each plant